...NOT IN THISDAY STYLE? THEN YOU’RE NOT IN STYLE
SUNDAY, JULY 26, 2020
E D I M U L O A
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CONTENT
Fashion KEEPSAKES
PG 6
HOW TO BUILD A FUNCTIONAL WARDROBE PG 8
• BACK FROM THE 90s • DOUBLE DELIGHT • HOW TO WEAR A SWEATER PG 10-11
MATCH THE FACES PG 18-19
FAT SHAMING
PG 20
360 ON THE POSITIVE PG 22
Born in 1972, Olumide Akpata is a Senior Partner at Templar’s Law Firm and heads the firm’s Corporate and Commercial Group. As the youngest of the three aspirants running for the seat of the President of the NBA (Nigerian Bar Association) Olumide is leaving no stone unturned to achieve his dream in bringing change to this noble profession. FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI reports.
THISDAY STYLE FASHION DIRECTAOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR RUTH OSIME
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EDITOR PRINT OLUFUNKE BABS-KUFEJI EDITOR DIGITAL KONYE NWABOGOR
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SENIOR ART DESIGNER MATHIAS ARCHIBONG 07054965500 CONTRIBUTORS RUKY SALAKO ISIOMA USIADE IYANU AYODELE PHOTOGRAPHER TY BELLO DIRECTOR, PRINT PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO 08077092196
Are you one of those that have wardrobes bursting at the seams and yet the process of getting ready to step out is a Herculean job because ‘you can’t find anything to wear’? This is what one can call wardrobe fatigue if there is any such phrase. I liken this to the inability of letting go and lighten your burden and this trait translates to every other aspect of life. Your wardrobe situation is a reflection of that. Many a time, when we see find ourselves in such dilemmas, where we have so much that we are spoilt for choice, it simply means we have to re-evaluate and re-adjust our excesses to make us appreciate what we have more when we have separated the wheat from the chaff. Our insatiable appetite for materials things must be curbed to enable us sift through life in a better place where our priorities begin to differ from what it once was. The Covid pandemic has removed our rose-tinted glasses and brought to fore more important things that should be the first three boxes on our priority list. First, health, emotional well-being and welfare. With that in mind, as inconsequential as it might sound, but still a step in the right direction, How To Build A Functional Wardrobe is something we should do this period with so much time in our hands. We should literally ‘download’ and give out what we haven’t worn or needed in the past decade or so. Staying attached to clothes that have not seen the light of day for that long simply means we will not miss their absence truth be told. This is more so, when some of the garments were not that expensive to purchase in the first place. In order for your clothes to ‘breathe’, you have to let go of the ‘space hoarders’. Naturally there are some Keepsakes that have and still stand the test of time. So it’s a no-brainer that those will remain. This is the season of loving your fellowman. The pandemic has reminded us that the little pleasures of life cost next to nothing. By giving out these space hoarders, you will inadvertently put smiles on the faces of the recipients. Stay safe! FASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Keepsakes
STYLE & DESIGN
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9208 Sunday, July 26, 2020
Cleaning out your wardrobe can be an emotional and arduous task. But once you get into it it can be tempting to toss almost everything and anything and start afresh. While some are most definitely a fan of the minimalist wardrobe and having a carefully curated wardrobe, there are some things you’ll regret getting rid of pretty quickly. In fact, there are six items in particular we think are always worth holding on to - yes, even if you think you don’t have room for them. So, what are the six pieces that are so imperative you keep?
BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI
LOUIS VUITTON MONOGRAM POCHETTE
JEWELRY
Similar to belts, jewelry is small enough that any pieces you’re not currently head-overheels for can easily be stowed in a decorative box and kept on your bookshelf. Or stored in a shoebox and tucked under your bed. Any and all fine jewelry should be considered a keepsake. This is doubly true for minimalist or classic styles like silver hoops, plain gold rings and dainty chain necklaces. Even if you don’t wear them down the line, they’re a sentimental gift for future nieces, nephews, children and so on. And don’t even get US started on watches, which will forever remain timeless and forever worthy of a spot in your jewelry box.
DESIGNER HANDBAGS
There’s a reason pricey totes and shoulder bags are often dubbed “investment pieces.” Fifteen years ago you may have thought it would be silly to hold onto your Louis Vuitton Monogram Pochette shoulder bag, but guess what? Every street style star, influencer and fashion editor was carrying that bag at fashion week in September 2019. John Galliano’s brilliant Dior saddlebag, which first debuted in 2000, made resurgence in September 2018 as perhaps the most commonly spotted bag during fashion month. It’s a smart move to hold onto classic (or even notso-classic) high-end styles, rather than buying them twice over.
DERIN ODUGBESANTHOMAS
DIOR SADDLE BAG
CHIOMA IKOKWU
SLIPS AND CAMIS
JEWELRY BOX
SCARVES
Whether they’re silk, cashmere or chunky knit wool, a good scarf really never goes out of style. (And sometimes you can even use them as a trusty hair accessory.) A nice wrap can even be worn over eveningwear, rather than slipping into a jacket that really doesn’t match your frock. Store your scarves in a box under the bed or stuff them into your handbags when they’re out of season. Don’t give away these handy accessories until they’re truly falling apart
SILK SCARVES
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We’re not talking about the ‘90s-esque slip dresses that are currently en vogue (although they’re definitely worth holding onto while the trend is still hot) but the actual undergarments. If you’ve ever purchased a white dress online only to find it’s significantly more see-through than you’d hoped, then you know what we mean. Neutral slips can be worn with sheer frocks and simple camis can elegantly cover cleavage - and both are always a good idea to have on hand, as long as they’re devoid of stains or other signs of wear and tear.
AT LEAST ONE ALL-PURPOSE BLACK DRESS
TACHA AKIDE
A definite yes unless you can no longer zip it up or would need to remove a rib in order to fit into it, then the dress should be donated. However, everyone should invest in, and keep, at least one timeless LBD. The last thing you want to do be doing in the days leading up to a memorial service is worrying about what to wear. Nor do you want to stress over last-minute cocktail party invitations, shortnotice job interviews or spontaneous meet-ups with that cutie you have had your eye on for quite a while. Do your due diligence and check in with that allpurpose LBD every year or so to make sure it’s still in good condition or that you won’t need to go ahead and schedule that rib-removal surgery
MODEL FOR PRIVATE LABEL CHARLIE KAMALE
SONIA COTTON CAMISOLE & MARISOTA WAIST SLIP VINTAGE ONE ARM CBL DRESS
GUCCI
VALENTINO
BELTS
As long as they’re in good condition and still fit, there’s no real reason to get rid of a belt. On the storage front, they barely take up any space and can be rolled up and stowed inside a handbag or hung on hooks on the inside of your closet door. As for sartorial staying power? If you wait long enough, even those wide ‘80s belts with giant buckles will most certainly be back in style. And of course, no one can deny the instantly flattering effect of cinching a shapeless dress
LOUIS VUITTON
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STYLE & DESIGN
HOW TO
MONICA Accentuate Your Personality It’s a well-known fact that people are judged by their outfits first. So no matter how strict your dress code at your work is, you should always spice things up with a touch of attitude and go for details that highlight your personality. Don’t copy others. Try to look unique, relying on your own interests and taste. Also try to avoid the same looks and experiment with your styling.
builda
THISDAY Style 2, No. 9208 Sunday, July 26, 2020
FUNCTIONAL WARDROBE
ALERO
Rely on Layering Layering is great, as with this simple trick you can easily create various looks, from smart to casual, from day to night and from cold to warm. This requires a little styling knowledge for the best results. For instance, match your dress with a sweater or a blazer, wear a tank under a t-shirt, a shirt with a fancy collar vest.
If your wardrobe is stacked with clothes, yet you stand in front of it for hours and feel like you have nothing to wear, it’s the right time to start rebuilding your wardrobe. You might think building a functional and fashionable wardrobe is something complicated that requires an entire fortune and lots of time. Well, that’s just not true! It can be a pleasant and interesting process, as nowadays the fashion industry offers a myriad of amazing style choices for every taste and budget. You should simply get oriented in your style and understand the pieces that make you look your best. Skim through the following useful fashion tips on how to build a functional and fashion-forward wardrobe, and have fun with your styling!
AMA GODSON
Pay Attention to the Fit No matter how voguish and beautiful your clothes are, you’ll not look great in them if they don’t fit you. It’s an unbreakable rule. Make sure that every item you buy is your size and flatters your shape.
ANDILE BIYANA
OZINNA
Focus on the Basics Wardrobe basics are essential. They are those items that be easily mixed and matched with other pieces in your closet. Wardrobe essentials include a little black dress, a pair of jeans, a white shirt, a pencil skirt, a pair of stylish trousers, classic pumps in black, brown or beige colours, comfy flats, a cardigan, a jacket, a stylish and functional bag, a simple scarf, and some versatile jewelry.
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Consider Your Lifestyle It’s important to consider your lifestyle when buying new things. Focus on pieces that will make you feel confident and comfortable in daily situations. For instance, if you work outdoors and walk a lot, towering high heels and an elegant pencil skirt might not work for you, though they are just the things for someone else with a desk job.
BOLANLE OLUKANNI
JENNIFER OSEH
STELLA ADEWUNMI Think Neutral colours Although bright colours and eyepopping prints may be the easiest way of attracting attention, they aren’t always on trend. Moreover, it’s important to focus on neutrals first if you want to create a functional wardrobe. These colours are timeless and can be easily mixed and matched both with brights and neutrals. Think black, white, brown, grey, camel, navy and cream.
Have Fun Always have fun with your styling. After all, fashion is fun and creativity is always welcome. Dressing is fun as far as you have a functional and fashionable wardrobe. Just mix and match your favorite items, add colour, accessorize and enjoy the process!
Get Pieces for Different Occasions A functional and fashion-forward wardrobe shouldn’t be composed of only jeans and t-shirts. It’s important to have something proper for every event. It’s wise to own some formal attire, dresses, casual attire and work attire.
FISAYO LONGE
Pay Attention to Trends Although basics are essential for creating a functional wardrobe, it’s also important to pay attention to trends in order to look fashionforward. Yes, trends come and go very quickly, and it’s difficult to catch up with them. However, adding a couple of on-trend pieces will make you look fresh and updated.
Vol. 22, No. 9208 Sunday, July 26, 2020
These days, everything that’s old is new again, and that includes your dad’s wardrobe. What you might have written off as dorky and dated in your younger years is once again hot. Dad style is a comeback trend this year. It’s all about embracing normalcy, comfort and utility and the latest styles
Fanny Packs
The fanny pack became commonplace in the ‘80s and ‘90s as a useful bag for skiers and athletes, and it appears to be here to stay. For a more modern look, wear around your waist or shoulders. It’s a basic way to carry your stuff around, hands free. ADEBAYO OKE LAWAL
DAD STYLE DOUBLE
The Bad Vacation Shirt
Gone are the days of skintight shirts cut close to your body. As the decade has progressed, shirts for men have gotten progressively looser, and we’ve welcomed the patterns, prints and stripes of the late ‘90s back into our closets. Whether you’re going for a Fear and Loathing look, the oversized patterned shirt look is classic. Wear it either open and over a tee, buttoned halfway up, or buttoned all the way up. AUDREY LUNDA
BACK FROM THE 90’S:
Beyond Baggy Jeans
Unlike the dark-wash skinny jeans that recently took the fashion world by storm, dad jeans go perfectly with contrastingly shirts. opt for a fitted shirt to balance out the loose fit. Try sizing up for that effortlessly cool, low-rise baggy fit. Dad style is all about that laid-back vibe. JEREMIAH OGBODO
Flannel Shirts
A staple to ‘90s fashion and today they are still worn, around the head or waist. What else matches more perfectly with a flannel shirt is denim jean. WEFITTERO
The weather is a fickle thing, especially now that the rainy days are upon us. With the temperature ever fluctuating, it can be hard to figure out what to wear. One of a few staple items to keep on hand is a sweater. It goes with just about everything. Whether you pair it with jeans and a jacket or if you wear it with a party dress, it adds
hit. Think oversized denim, crewneck cuts, windbreakers, fanny packs and bulky white sneakers. Rooted in familiar simplicity, this understated movement lets you wear the clothes and not the other way around. Get into our favourite dad-inspired styles that papa probably rocked in the ‘90s that are totally rad today.
The Baseball Cap
DELIGHT BY USIADE ISIOMA
A white top can give your personality a pinch of grace and transform your appearance for the good. This style is fresh and feminine! You can make a style statement when paired correctly. The look is classic and will look perfect on everyone. Sometimes all it takes is a simple styling switch up to make a repeated staple feel fresh again.
This is a crucial element of the look. Wearing a baseball cap says “paparazzi. Alternatively, elevate your look by wearing it backwards. That tells people you’re far too cool for functionality. PIERRE LAURENT
The Chunky Sneaker
Denim Dungarees
There’s nothing more freeing than wearing some baggy overalls. Apart from being a really great transseasonal outfit, you get to feel great pairing it with and some sneakers. JIMUSH
Nothing goes better with a pair of dad jeans than a pair of dad sneakers. Besides being good to look at, chunky sneakers are also incredibly comfy, any colour will do. And remember, the chunkier the better. RICHIE
Just Like Dad
This easy-to-wear look should be in your heavy rotation. Wear a light wash denim shorts, a bright colour or pattern shirt, white ankle socks and sneakers. Ultimate dad style, achieved. TIMINI EGBUSON
warmth to any outfit and serves as an added layer that glam up the style of whatever you are wearing. For this time of sweaterweather, STYLE has rounded up 10 gorgeous looks you can try today to best show off your beautiful sweaters and also update your wardrobe with dainty winter vibes and styles.
ODITY
ALEXANDRIAH SHO-SILVA
AMA GODSON HAFSAH MOHAMMED
Embellished Sweater and Leather skirt Faux fur, Vinyl and Leather
looks trendy and eye-catching. This keeps the look well-balanced as the sweater is loose while the skirt is fitted and mini finish up the look with a cute purse and a simple sandal.
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Beautiful Sweater & Statement Skirt
This ensemble is perfect for work, get coffee with friends or head on a weekend date with this look. Simply tuck a sweater into a high-waist skirt. You can either pair this outfit with strappy heels or little ankle boots.
Turtleneck Extra-long sleeve and skinnies
A turtleneck extra-long sleeve look is once again, a handy option for ladies who dislike wearing mufflers. It’s a good way to stay extra warm in chilly weather. Plus, they just look so cute with jeans and long boots! These are great everyday looks you will want to keep in mind this period.
ZOE MSUTWANA
Cosy Sweater and shorts
An elegant cosy sweater is a dreamy option for a girl’s night out or a trip to the theatre or even a family dinner! You can pair your sweater with a high-waisted short, Accessorize with delicate jewellery and wear heels.
LILIAN
Sweater with Puffed Sleeves for Parties For the lady that loves to make a statement, Try out these puffed sleeves! This unique sweater is an eye-catching piece to add to your wardrobe. Save this look for your next party or high school reunion and watch the compliments flood in.
CAUSAL LOOK For a casual look simply keep things simple and pair with a cool tone colour palette. To finish off the look, wear a strappy sandal, a slouchy tote, and fun necklace. The combo is cool and neutral giving the overall look a calm vibe, even though there’s a lot going on. CHARLOTTE KAMALE WEEKEND LOOK There is a lot to love about the second look, it not too dressy, nor too casual. It lands somewhere right in the middle, ideal for those occasions when you don’t know whether to dress up or down. The top complements the mom jeans giving it an extra modern look. This outfit really speaks for itself.
SARAH LANGE
NAOMI NOINYANE MARII PAZZ
CHARLOTTE KAMALE
HOW TO WEAR A
SWEATER STYL ISHLY
Cute, Stylish Dinner Outfit
Casual Crop Sweater Style
BY USIADE ISIOMA
Cropped sweaters really became a thing few years back but they have actually stuck around! Crop sweaters are a lovely asset to your wardrobe and look great when paired with casual ensemble. This a great outfit for a spa day, getting coffee with friends or hitting up your favourite boutique.
Classic Sweater & power bike short
This lovely look works well. All you need is a loose sweater in a neutral shade like this soft black. Pair with black power bike and a complementing pair of pointy heels. Accessorize with a cute handbag.
High-waisted culottes are some seriously cute pants you should totally try this period! Get them belted for extra pizzazz as well. Wear with nude heels and minimal accessorize to make the most of this look! This is a great ensemble for dinners with the family or meeting up with old friends. CAHRLOTTE KAMALE
Cut-out off the shoulder Sweaters
A flirty, youthful look for a casual outing is a cut-out off the shoulder sweater. It’s an easy way to keep yourself warm without having to layer up. Pair with ripped jeans and pop on some slip on.
Sweater Dress for Girls Day Out
Need a chic look to hit up the mall with your girls. Check out this little ensemble. With a sweater dress, you can go barelegged and opt for boots or heels. This is a super stylish way to pull a look like this together and go for a bold pair of statement heels. Use delicate jewellery to enhance the classy elegance of this ensemble.
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9208 Sunday, July 26, 2020
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9208 Sunday, July 26, 2020
Born in 1972, Olumide Akpata is the youngest of three aspirants running for President of the NBA (Nigerian Bar Association). With his impressive portfolio in the legal profession, Olumide is leaving no stone unturned to achieve his dream in bringing change to this noble profession. Olumide started his early education in Warri, Delta State. He attended secondary school at Kings College Lagos and proceeded to the University of Benin in 1989 where he attained his LLB Degree. Upon completion, he attended the Nigerian Law School and was called to the Nigerian Bar on in 1993. After NYSC in Kano, he joined the firm of Dr Mudiaga Odje & Co. Upon completion, he relocated to Lagos to team up with Oghogho Akpata to establish Templars in 1996. 25 years later, Olumide Akpata is a Senior Partner at Templars, a world class, multi-sectoral and fullservice firm which consists of over 100 fee earners including 15 partners and two senior advocates. He heads the firm’s Corporate and Commercial Group. Olumide has worked on some of the major transactions which have shaped commercial practice in Nigeria. Some of these include: the unbundling of NEPA, the merger between Diamond Bank and Access Bank PLC which resulted in the emergence of Africa’s largest retail bank (by customers) and one of the largest lenders in Nigeria; and General Electric’s (GE) strategic acquisition that heralded the establishment of GE’s oil and gas operations in Nigeria. On account of his in-depth understanding of law, he was given the Business Icon of the year award by ESQ Law in 2018. Olumide has been actively involved in the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), most especially the NBA Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL). He was a pioneer member of the NBA- SBL and worked with the founding Chairman, to operationalize the section after its inauguration in 2004. Since then, he has been the Secretary, Vice Chairman and Chairman in 2013, 2014 and 2016. The NBA-SBL under his leadership achieved, among other things, the following: setting up SBL Clubs in six universities across the six geopolitical zones; creating several additional subject-matter specific committees; organizing two world-class NBA-SBL Conferences (2017 and 2018) in partnership with the International Bar Association (IBA), a free training seminar for over 100 young lawyers; establishing a partnership with the National Assembly and the Nigerian Economic Summit Group and collaborating with the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council on the ease of doing business in Nigeria. His activities as a lawyer interested in the advancement of the legal profession goes beyond the shores of Nigeria. He represented the NBA on the council of the IBA in 2014 and 2016. He has also served/ serves as Vice Chairman of the IBA Africa Regional Forum; Member of the IBA Presidential Task Force on the Future of the Legal Profession, Member of the IBA Credentials and Officer/Member of the IBA Anti- Corruption Committee. Additionally, he sits on the Boards of a number of private companies. He is a member of several think- tanks, including the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG) and the United Nations Nigerian Humanitarian Fund (UN-NHF). When he isn’t working, Olumide enjoys bonding with his family and friends. Loves to explore new destinations and reading biographies of distinguished personalities. FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI reports...
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A T A P AK ! D E I N M R E T E D
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You had a successful tenure as Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association’s Section on Business Law. Is it safe to say the same will be expected if you emerge as President of the Association? I am proud of what we achieved at the NBA-SBL. What we demonstrated to the rest of the Association is that you can set a standard and maintain it. We became the convergence-point of regulators, policymakers, lawyers, and government. Issues affecting Nigeria’s economy were regularly deliberated upon at our events especially our flagship Annual Business Law Conferences. In the process, we positively impacted our members and raised the bar of commercial law practice in Nigeria. Our style has always been to actively collaborate with policy makers and regulators to enhance the business environment in Nigeria. Some of these collaborations include working with the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council, (PEBEC) led by Nigeria’s Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN; the Dr. Jumoke Oduwole led Enabling Business Environment Secretariat (EBES); and the National Assembly Business Environment Roundtable (NASSBER) established in partnership with the National Assembly and the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, with support from the UK Department for International Development. These collaborations, which resulted in Nigeria climbing 24 notches on the Global Ease of Doing Business Index, are indicative of what can be achieved if we work
If we can get our acts together at the Bar and lead by example, we can influence the larger society towards the building of a nation that we can all be proud to associate with.
together and are galvanized by an ultimate objective. Before COVID-19, not all lawyers or law firms in Nigeria appreciated the need for law/legal tech generally and virtual meetings or remote working in particular. However, this is now the new norm. Do you see law practice in Nigeria returning to the ‘old norm’ any time soon? Virtual court hearings should come as no surprise in this age. For a long time, virtual hearings have been in use in other jurisdictions and it has worked well. There is no reason why it cannot or should not be used in Nigeria. It is sad that the trigger for our adoption
of this modern method of justice delivery is a deadly pandemic, but I am happy that we have adopted it now. Thankfully, the Supreme Court recently hinted that there is nothing unconstitutional about virtual hearings. I think it is a welcome development. I do not see us returning to the old norm in the immediate future. What this means is that any law firm that wants to compete, remain relevant, and survive must continue to evolve and this will entail progressively investing in technology. Why are you contesting for the position of the President of the NBA? Like many fellow citizens, I am a frustrated Nigerian. The country is disintegrating right before our eyes. However, instead of complaining, I want to use my platform to make a difference. The legal profession in Nigeria is a microcosm of the larger Nigerian society and I believe that we encapsulate in miniature, all the big issues that we complain about in our society. If we can get our acts together at the Bar and lead by example, we can influence the larger society towards the building of a nation that we can all be proud to associate with. Of all the lawyers who have expressed interest in the NBA presidency, you are the youngest. Do you feel intimidated in any way? I am the youngest of the three candidates but anyone
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who has followed my career knows that I cannot be intimidated by anybody. I do not see any obstacle that is insurmountable. What is important is that I am eligible to contest and serve the NBA in this capacity. The NBA Constitution provides that a candidate for the office of President must have not less than 15 years post qualification experience. I was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1993, and I have been in uninterrupted private legal practice since then, 27 years, out of which time I have spent the last 24 years as a co-owner of a law firm and an employer of lawyers. I have been in the National Executive Committee of the NBA for the past six years; and I am from Edo State, in the western geographical zone to which the NBA Constitution has zoned the office of the President from August 2020 to August 2022. I am therefore, very qualified to contest for the position of NBA President. How best can the falling standards of the legal profession be addressed and reformed? The decay in our system of legal education is one manifestation of the decay in the general educational system in Nigeria, which has been worsened by our collective lackadaisical attitude towards the need to consistently update the curricula and effectively train our law teachers. We need a substantial overhaul of the education that our law students receive both at the Nigerian Law School and at the various universities. I cannot comprehend how law students in 2020 are receiving the same education that I received over 30 years ago. Meanwhile their counterparts in growing economies are being taught courses and modules that reflect the current economic realities. At an institutional level, our system of legal education has to appreciate the fact that the lawyer’s role is not limited to resolving disputes but extends to the servicing of all aspects of the economy. We need to instate reformative educational policies to align our system of legal education with the needs of our growing economy. Thankfully, the NBA is well placed to tackle these problems. The Director General and all the lecturers of the Nigerian Law School are lawyers. The Chairman of the Council of Legal Education is also a lawyer. It is up to the NBA to partner with these distinguished members to effect a transformational change to the legal training that prospective lawyers in Nigeria receive. Why should a legal practitioner vote for you instead of your opponents as the next President of the NBA? What I bring to the table are recent and relevant record of result-oriented leadership in almost all positions that I have been privileged to hold within and outside the Bar; a clear understanding of the issues affecting the Bar and practical solutions for dealing with them; a deep appreciation of the role that the Bar plays or ought to play as the watchdog of the society and a commitment to deliver as such; and availability to steer the ship. I really want to be a hands-on President and to attain this goal, my partners at my law firm have agreed to allow me to take a two-year sabbatical to focus on the office should I become President. But l do hope this is not a trend that continues with future Presidents after this upcoming tenure because leadership and law practice ought not to be mutually exclusive. However, given the amount of work needed to stop such trend now, full dedication is crucial, and I sincerely do not believe that any other candidate can genuinely offer this. What other key things are you looking to change should you
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9208 Sunday, July 26, 2020
succeed in your aspiration? First will be reforming the institutional and governance processes of the NBA to have it run as a proper institution like other parts of the world. Second will be a significant involvement of the Bar in the promotion of rule of law, improved administration of justice, defence of the Judiciary, law reforms and legal education reforms.
I have made it clear that my idea of welfare for lawyers does not consist of providing fleeting hand-outs or freebies to lawyers, but rather to have lawyers equipped with modern skills and tools to provide for themselves and earn better.
Third will be the welfare of the members as a lawyers’ welfare is an important component of the dignity of our profession. Fourth will be to have a Bar where every lawyer feels welcome, has a voice and a seat at the table and can aspire to any heights without limitation or discrimination regardless of their station or status whether they be young lawyers or senior lawyers, senor advocates or non-senior advocates, lawyers in private practice or those that are in-house or in the academia or working as law officers. Lastly, will be to have to put in place policies that will help us lay the foundations for a Bar that is globally competitive and prepared for the future in terms of technology in law, cross border law practice, new and emerging practice areas for Nigerian lawyers and so on. How is your plan of action different from the usual promises most likely also given by your opponents? I have made it clear that my idea of welfare for lawyers does not consist of providing fleeting hand-outs or freebies to lawyers, but rather to have lawyers equipped with modern skills and tools to provide for themselves and earn better. The question of the working conditions of lawyers especially the remuneration of legal practitioners in private practice is undoubtedly a controversial issue for an NBA President. But we cannot run away from the reality that a good number of lawyers work without any formal employment contract and are left at the whims of their employers. In some cases, the poor remuneration of lawyers is a function of the inability of the employers to do better. But in many other cases, this practice is completely unjustified. This has made the legal profession in Nigeria a laughing stock and no Association worth its salt would fold its hands and do nothing. In this regard l promise to give institutional backing to the ongoing discussions regarding the remuneration of lawyers with a view to devising feasible and enforceable ways to improve the lot of our members. There is the need for an NBA Remuneration Committee to be charged with this responsibility. There are also other measures to encourage and create incentives for law firms and senior lawyers to pay their young lawyers and I pledge to explore them. One of the exciting things about your candidacy has been the diverse nature of your endorsers. One which particularly stood out came from Audu Maikori who complained about the informal segregation that exists at the Bar and the condescending manner in which some practitioners view those that specialize in media and entertainment law and touted your ability to bring about an all-inclusive profession. What do you say to that? I appreciate his endorsement and indeed all others who have endorsed me. I completely understand where Audu was coming from. For too long, different segments of the legal profession in Nigeria have been treated as outsiders or as less than equal members of the profession. As a commercial lawyer who personally fought to ensure that the voice of commercial law practitioners is heard, using the NBA-SBL as a platform, I appreciate the need to ensure that different constituencies in the profession including corporate counsel, lawyers in government, law teachers, police and military lawyers, etc. are also given a voice and their due recognition as equal members of the profession. We need a Bar where every lawyer feels welcome, has a voice and and can aspire to any heights without limitation or discrimination regardless of their practice area. This is part of my pledge and I will ensure that it happens. Do you think that the fact that you are yet to take silk threatens your desire to lead the Bar? I think it is a rather pointless dichotomy. The fact that you are a Senior Advocate means that you
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9208 Sunday, July 26, 2020
are exceptional as a litigator and an advocate. You have excelled at it. But to be President of the Bar, you also need to be an astute administrator, a manager of men and resources, a people-person. Any qualified lawyer, SAN or non-SAN can be President of the Bar, as long as he/she has the credentials required for the position. So, I do not feel threatened at all. Instead of quibbling over rank and position, we should pull together and recognize the issues bedeviling us as a profession, so we can fix them and bequeath to the next generation a profession that is worthy of its name. Very recently, it was reported that the EFCC brought a charge against certain persons for allegedly rigging the 2018 election of the Association. What can be done to increase candidate/voter confidence in the process? Since that charge is now pending in court, there is little I can say about it out of the respect to the courts and in obedience to the sub judice rule. That said, several articles and opinions have already been written in respect of the 2020 NBA elections and indeed I have written to the ECNBA to express my unease with the level of preparations for the election scheduled to take place in a few days. Part of my complaint is that the voters’ register is demonstrably flawed; there are unresolved issues with the frustrating and completely unnecessary verification exercise that appears designed to disenfranchise eligible members; and above all, contrary to all known best practices, the technology to be deployed at the poll is shrouded in secrecy. The loud silence of the ECNBA is bewildering. I was in University at the time of the crisis that tore the Association apart in 1992. Anything short of a fully transparent, free, fair, credible and user-friendly election in 2020 may plunge the Association into another round of crisis from which it may not recover. We hope the ECNBA can learn from history and forestall that. One of the recent criticisms against the NBA is that
independence of the judiciary and the need for respect of judgments and orders of courts at all times.
We need a Bar where every lawyer feels welcome, has a voice and and can aspire to any heights without limitation or discrimination regardless of their practice area. This is part of my pledge and I will ensure that it happens.
the Association has lost its voice in national affairs or that its voice is no longer taken seriously. How can this perception be changed? Indeed the NBA has lost its voice as the prime defender of the integrity and independence of the Bar, the judiciary and Nigerian society at large. The NBA Motto is Promoting the Rule of Law. The promotion and protection of the principles of the rule of law are also part of our aims and object. But for too long the NBA has yielded its position as the conscience of the Nigerian society and the bulwark against tyranny and injustice in Nigeria. Things are so bad that even lawyers themselves who are supposed to be the defenders of the rule of law and the society are now victims of the harassment and abuse by security forces. As long as the Bar fails to carry out this sacred duty, we would continue to dash the hopes of the millions of Nigerians who look up to us to fight injustice, condemn unpopular government policies and check abuse of power. Under an Olumide Akpata NBA Presidency, the voice of the NBA will be heard in respect of the policies and actions of government. Our position must be unequivocal in defence of the supremacy of the constitution, the sanctity of the rule of law, the
Nigerian judiciary is perceived as corrupt due to judgments that do not meet the expectations of Nigerians. This is worsened by the conflicting decisions of courts. What do you think about the mode of recruiting judicial officers? Over the years, the Bench has been flooded with a lot of people who should not be there. Competence has largely been thrown out of the process and many judges have been appointed on the basis of relationships. This must stop. We have judges who have knowledge and/or character deficiencies, and this erodes public confidence in the judiciary. The processes for recruiting and appointing judicial officers must be objective and transparent and it must be founded on competence. If the members find me worthy to occupy the office of President of the NBA, I will use that high office to liaise with the National Judicial Council and the State Judicial Service Commissions to ensure that appointments of judicial officers to the superior and inferior courts are objective and transparent. The NBA whose members are appointed to the bench must play a major role in ensuring that only the very best end up on the bench. This is the only way we can restore the dignity of that noble office. Before we end, let us step away from the law for a bit. What type of music do you like? What books interest you? For music, honestly, I like it all. From Van Halen to Victor Uwaifo. I love music, I love to party and love to dance. It’s really a function of what I hear and how I feel. Phil Collins, Barry White, Luciano Pavarotti, MajekFashek, Lucky Dube, Julio Iglesias, Anita Baker. The list goes on. For books, I read more biographies. I enjoyed Femi Okunnu’s biography and the story of the march from Ibadan to Lagos to protest the defense pact with the United Kingdom was very inspiring.
S O M E O F L I F E ’ S FA M O U S Q U O T E S When defeat comes, accept it as a signal that your plans are not sound, rebuild those plans, and set sail once more toward your coveted goal. Napoleon Hill
Do not wait inspirational quotes for lawyers Don’t join an easy crowd; you won’t grow. Go where the expectations and the demands to perform are high.
You must keep your mind on the objective, not on the obstacle. -William Randolph Hearst
Jim Rohn
Formal education will make you a living; self-education will make you a fortune. Jim Rohn
Do not wait: the time will never be ‘just right’. Start where you stand, and work whatever tools you may have at your command and better tools will be found as you go along.
The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.
Napoleon Hill
Chinese proverb
Days are expensive. When you spend a day you have one less day to spend. So make sure you spend each one wisely.
Rarely have I seen a situation where doing less than the other guy is a good strategy.
Jim Rohn
Jimmy Spithill
What’s money? A man is a success if he gets up in the morning and goes to bed at night and in between does what he wants to do. Bob Dylan
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9208 Sunday, July 26, 2020
STYLE & DESIGN
STYLE & DESIGN
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 9208 Sunday, July 26, 2020
MATCH THE FACES She was born in 1982 and hails from a prestigious family in Ekiti State. She is a gorgeous fashion stylist and entrepreneur. In fact, she is described as “Jack of all trades, Master of All�. She is known for her philanthropic nature and her savvy entrepreneurial skills and has portrayed herself as a role model in business to her fans. She has a range of skin care products and has snagged a number of awards to include the City People Awards and also the Stylist of the Year award at the 2014 ELOY Awards.
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She is a fashion designer best known for incorporating traditional West African textiles with modern tailoring techniques. Her innovative use of Ankara and traditional African fabrics spices her designs in a unique way. Using her incredible design skills, she managed to elevate Ankara, a common fabric, to something luxurious and covetable. Since starting her eponymous label in 2005, she has been one of the veteran Nigerian designers who has managed to create something longstanding and is consistently developing to compete with emerging designers.
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She was born in Nigeria but moved her life to the United Kingdom to complete her studies. She then had a light bulb moment after the birth of her son. She wanted to build something that could be passed on as a legacy to her son and she started a brand known for its signature bold approach to colours, form-fitting tailored pieces, simple and yet classy fashion. Currently, the brand serve customers in the UK, US, Canada, Nigeria and other countries in Europe and Africa. She is the designer behind the Adire skirt making waves on the street of Instagram.
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He is one of the most recognized and sought-after designers in the industry today. He launched his clothing line in 2007 which specializes in suits for men and glamorous red-carpet dresses, and In 2011 he added gorgeous wedding dresses to his brand to cater for all clothing needs for weddings. With his clothing line, he has developed a reputation for gorgeous and perfectly fitting dresses that translate into the sophisticated and elegant look every bride desires not to forget also meeting the needs of the grooms in his well-tailored bespoke suits. Though an indigene of Edo State, he spent most of his childhood in Benin City, Lagos and London before he ventured into the world of fashion.
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ANSWERS ON NEX T PAGE He is best known for being a Stylist and began his career as a celebrity fashion stylist with the launch of his brand in 2012. Aside from styling clients for red carpet appearances and video shoots, coverage of his work has appeared in numerous magazines and online publications.
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He has two siblings who are popular Nigeria comedians. His brand stands as the most favourite fashion designer to a majority of entertainers and Celebrities far and wide. He has a passion and determination to always provide smashing styles and designs that speaks volume to the world. He won many awards for his skill and art.
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STYLE
& DESIGN
MATCH THE
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How well do you know your Fashion Designers and Stylists?
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JEREMIAH OGBODO
TOLU-BALLY
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OMONIYI MAKUN
TOYIN LAWANI
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LISA FOLAWIYO MAI ATAFO
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Fat SHAMING!
BY DONU KOGBARA
BATTLE OF THE BULGE - PART 17 (WEEK 19) Recap and vital statistics: I am 5 feet and 10 inches tall and 60 years old. I was super-slim till about 10 years ago, then gradually got fat. I started this weight loss programme on March 16th when I weighed a whopping 120kg and measured 49-47-51 (chest-waist-hips) inches. I was once about 70kg, but there’s no need to be as superslim at this age as one was as a youngster, so I’m aiming to settle for 85kg; and by last Sunday, my weight had dropped to 106kg. But I haven’t lost an ounce since last Sunday, despite sticking to the same fairly strict diet-and-exercise formula that has enabled me to shed kilos in previous weeks. Even the most disciplined of dieters will occasionally hit plateaux – phases of losing no weight. And it’s just a temporary problem that can be solved by increasing physical activity and further reducing food intake. But I’m still feeling very discouraged. And I’ve been telling myself off for getting into this obesity mess in the first place. While I was sharing my self-loathing, despairing thoughts about years of gluttony with a girlfriend, she drew my attention to an article by Professor John Wilding, an eminent British consultant endocrinologist who believes that obesity is not about greed. Here are excerpts from an article he wrote for the UK’s Daily Mail newspaper in August 2019 Over the years I have seen thousands of patients who are struggling with their weight and very few are just eating too much for the pure pleasure of it. In fact, they are desperate to change the circumstances they are in and often associate food with guilt and shame. The idea that they are weak-willed individuals unable properly to look after themselves couldn’t be farther from the truth… …Obesity is caused by factors largely outside our control, such as the increased availability of cheap processed food, sedentary lifestyles encouraged by the reduction in schools sports fields, and increased stress, which may lead some people to overeat. Many also have a genetic tendency to pile on the pounds…[and] studies show that of all the things which make us the weight we are, our genetic inheritance accounts for more than half. It is likely that this is due to the way genes regulate our appetites and it’s not simply a problem of our own making. That is why I believe classifying obesity as a disease is so important.
According to the dictionary, a disease is a condition that prevents the body and mind from working normally and this is definitely the case with obesity. It raises the risk of serious conditions such as type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (caused by a build-up of fat in the liver, this accounts for as many cases of cirrhosis as alcohol), arthritis, heart attacks and strokes, plus many cancers including bowel, breast and womb. In fact, if you combine obesity with type 2 diabetes, it is the largest epidemic the world has ever seen. Around one death in ten in the UK is now linked to carrying excess fat, according to the Office for National Statistics. But, because it is the underlying cause of other diseases, it is not usually mentioned on the death certificate. People who have a BMI over 30 but below 40 will live about four years less than someone with a normal body mass index (under 25). If their BMI is over 40 they will live, on average, 12 years less. Classifying obesity as a disease could save thousands of lives in the UK in the long term. Lots of other countries, including the US and Japan, taking their lead from the World Health Organisation, already classify it in this way, which is helping them try to tackle this epidemic by promoting specialist treatments and allowing people to access medical care… Classifying obesity as a disease would also remove some of the stigma, helping people ask for help at an earlier stage… Chronic obesity causes more damage to the body the longer it goes on; if it was recognised and treated early, those people could avoid developing lifethreatening conditions such as heart disease. [One] argument against treating obesity as a disease is that it means removing personal responsibility — I don’t think it will do this. Many other diseases, such as asthma, require someone to take responsibility to manage their condition….” Hmmm. Interesting! What do ThisDay Style readers think about Professor Wilding’s let-fattiesoff-the-hook views? I must confess that they don’t make me feel any better than I did before I read the article. I still think it is my fault that I am fat!!! DONU KOGBARA IS A VANGUARD NEWSPAPER COLUMNIST. Please feel free to share your thoughts about her weight loss journey on donzol2002@yahoo.co.uk
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STYLE & DESIGN
360
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THISDAY Style 9208 Sunday, July 26, 2020
POSI IVE
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 9208 Sunday, July 26, 2020
DR IFEYINWA NWAKWESI
LIVING A PHENOMENAL, HEALTHY, HAPPY AND FULFILLED LIFE.
COPING WITH STRESS - STRESS A SILENT KILLER PART 11
Two weeks ago I wrote about Stress , the definition of stress , the stress concept and the stress response. This week I will conclude the remaining part of the stress response and discuss the biochemistry of the stress response , the signs and symptoms of the stress response and personality types
STRESS RESPONSE ( CONT ) We are faced with all Kinds of stressors . It may be that the decision based on our interpretation of the situations and our emotions is just right and our response is successful in dealing with the demands. In this situation, we will feel no distress and may experience EUSTRESS. Sometimes it may be that the decision is out of place or our response to the situation is ineffective in which case we will experience distress. For us to be able to respond to any situation or demand, the get set instructions are passed from the brain to the body through small electrical impulses which are sent along nerves directly from the brain to the body organs . When these impulses arrive at the end of the nerve cells , small amounts of a chemical called a neurotransmitter are released into the cells that make up the organ. The neurotransmitter will then alter the activity of the organ. Messages also get to the organs by a special chemical messenger called a hormone. This is released from a special gland (endocrine gland) and travels in the body to the organs. The hormones will also alter the activity of the organ enabling the body to prepare for action. The hormones that are mainly involved in the stress response are noradrenaline, adrenaline and cortisol. Thjs is a very complicated biochemical process. For the purpose of this article, i will not delve into further details. The main point to note is that certain hormones are released during periods of activation of the stress response and as the stress level goes down, there is also a decrease in the level of these hormones. It is also important to note that these hormones, noradraline, adrenaline, and casitol affect the body organs in various ways. During prolonged periods of stress without any relaxation, these hormones will lead to some unpleasant signs and symptoms and if the stress continues, this may lead to major health problems. SIGNS OF STRESS:Physical:- Aware of heart beating, palpitations, breathlessness, lump in the throat, rapid shallow breathing, dry mouth, “butterflies� in Stomach, indigestion, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, general muscle tenseness particularly of the jaws, grinding of teeth, clenched fists, hunched shoulders, general muscle aches and pains, cramps, restlessness, hyperactivity, nail biting, finger drumming, foot tapping, faintness, headaches, frequent illness such as colds, sweaty palms and upper lip, hot flushed feeling, cold hands and feet, frequent desire to urinate, over eating, loss of appetite, increased cigarrate smoking, increased alcohol consumption and loss of interest in sex. Mental and Emotional :- Distress, tearful, worried, upset, deflated, feeling of helplessness, guilt, hysterical, withdrawn, feeling unable to cope, anxious, depressed, impatient, easily Irritated and aggravated, angry, hostile, frustrated, bored , inadequate , rejected neglected,
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insecure, vulnerable, loss of interest in self appearance, health, sex , diet, low self esteem and loss of interest in others. Polyphasic ( doing too many things at once), rushed, failing to finish tasks before going on to the next, difficulty in starting to do things, prone to making sily mistakes and having accidents, having so much to do and not knowing where to start so ending up doing nothing or going from task to task and not completing anything, hypercritical , inflexible, un- reasonable, over reactive, non- productive and poor efficiency.
- Finding it difficult to stick to speed limits and gets impatient with other drivers. - Feels guilty when he or she relaxes. - When on holiday often misses lovely sites. - Walks, talks and eats quickly. - Tense and angry when waiting in queues - Constantly striving for material gain - Gets frustrated when people do things slowly. - Finds difficulty in expressing feelings ( affection). Most stress problems are - caused by personality Type A.
SIGNS OF EUSTRESS Euphoric, stimulated, creative, understanding, thrilled, excited, helpful, sociable, friendly, loving happy, calm, controlled, effective, confident, efficient, clear and rational in thought, decisive, industrious, lively, productive, jolly, often smiling. Please note that these signs and symptoms are not exhaustive and many of these signs and symptoms could be due to other medical problems and other factors. It is important to consult a doctor if you are feeling unwell and having lots of these signs and symptoms to exclude any other possible causes.
Type B personality - The Relaxed Listener:- Main Characteristics Traits are:-Co-operative with others calm and in control Can take criticism Flexible -Also an achiever but more calculated -Takes breaks and rest when tired without feeling guilty -Extremely laid back and easy going. -Able to delegate and encourage others.
SOURCES OF STRESS:- Almost everything around us can be a potential source of stress. That a particular event or experience becomes a stress situation for anyone is largely dependent on some factors which including the following:- State of Health - Beliefs & Faith - Genetics - Personality - Age - Sex - Education - Experience and Reference - Attitude and Perception - Needs - Upbringing - Expectation and Rules
The third group is Type AB which is a combination of type A and B characteristics. Some people genetically are stress inclined. They may come from families where almost everyone is always uptight or worry easily. This is closely related to upbringing. We tend to develop habits early in life. If we are brought up in an environment where people panic at the slightest problems, we may not have learnt how to keep calm doing periods of challenges so that we may have the opportunity to look for a solution. Our state of health is also a factor. During periods of ill health, our coping abilities will be diminished. When we are in vibrant health, our ability to cope with challenges and problems is also enhanced. Age and sex are also factors. The older one gets, the more likely that he will be in a position to cope with challenges. It seems that women are better able to cope with stress associated with their multiple roles in life. Their roles as mothers equip them with the skills to manage their stress. Women are generally calmer and more gentle. Men tend to be more aggressive and infact its male chauvinism to be tough. Our educational level may also expose us to information and strategies that will help us cope better with stress as long as we are willing to use the information. Education also provides us better opportunities to succeed financially which is a major stress reduction factor. Our beliefs, faith, attitudes, experience and expectations all influence our coping ability. It is a question of managing our beliefs, thoughts and feelings which i have dealt with in my previous articles . There are some other factors that can lead to stress called unavoidable life events. These events occur at one time ot the other in our lives. We just have to find ways to deal with them when they occur. In the next two weeks I will finish the concluding part of stress and write about the effects of stress on our health and performance.
These factors will determine how the individual deals with challenges and how easily they can cope with the various demands in their lives. Some people have a personality type that make them highly prone to stress. In studies that have been carried out by the New England Journal of Medicine,it was discovered that there are basically three personality types A, B and AB PERSONALITY TRAITS 1. Type A personality The Hungry Achiever Main Characteristic traits are:- Does more than one thing at a time -Hates criticism -Very competitive -Always in a hurry -Tense and restless -Tendency to be aggressive -Poor Listener -Inpatient OTHERS INCLUDE:-
Dr Ifeyinwa Nwakwesi - Stress , cell - revitalization, integrative medicine and Cani specialist
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